Experiencing unusual vaginal bleeding can be alarming, but it’s essential to understand the possible causes and when to seek medical advice.
Common Causes:
- Miscarriage: Unfortunately, miscarriages can occur, leading to unexpected bleeding.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, especially in women nearing menopause, can cause irregular bleeding.
- Stress: High levels of stress can sometimes disrupt the menstrual cycle, resulting in abnormal bleeding.
- Vaginal Dryness: Dryness in the vaginal area can sometimes lead to bleeding.
- Cervical Issues: Conditions like cervical ectropion or erosion can cause bleeding, as well as cervical cancer, especially in women aged 25 to 64 who should undergo regular cervical screenings.
- Uterine or Vaginal Issues: Various conditions such as uterine or vaginal cancer, polyps, or fibroids can also be culprits.
When to Seek Medical Advice:
If you experience any unusual vaginal bleeding between periods, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. Here’s what you should do:
- See a GP or Visit a Sexual Health Clinic: A healthcare professional can assess your symptoms and suggest appropriate tests.
- Tests That May Be Conducted: Depending on your situation, your healthcare provider may recommend tests such as STI tests, blood tests, pregnancy tests, cervical screenings (if you’re between 25 and 64 years old and not up-to-date), or pelvic ultrasound scans.
- Examinations That May Be Necessary: Some conditions may require physical examinations, including speculum examinations or bimanual examinations, to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of the bleeding.
Unusual vaginal bleeding should never be ignored. Seeking timely medical advice can help diagnose any underlying issues and ensure appropriate treatment. Remember, your health is paramount, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if you have concerns about abnormal bleeding.
References :
All the other women’s health non-pregnancy topics you can find here : https://www.nhs.uk/womens-health/